Member Article

Growing renewables sector helps Barnsley firm double turnover

Electrical engineering consultancy, Utility Consultancy and Engineering Ltd (UCE), has seen turnover double in the last 12 months’ and is investing in growth to meet rising demand for its services.

The Barnsley company designs complex electrical power systems which connect power users and power generators to the UK’s electricity network.

The firm’s clients include new-build commercial developments, data centres, housing estates and retail parks, plus a growing number of renewable energy producers constructing solar farms and wind farms.

The company has increased its staff by five in the last 12 months and now employs three engineers and a CAD technician in Barnsley, two engineers in London, and one in Sardinia – with whom the team liaises via Skype.

In the last two years, demand for its services has grown and turnover doubled with work in the renewables sector now representing 70% of its business.

UCE, based at Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre, is being supported by Enterprising Barnsley, a European-funded programme delivered by Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council.

UCE managing director Paul Leeuwerke said: “We had a tough time during the recession but, since we have re-aligned the business to focus on the renewable energy sector we have seen a steep rise in demand for our expertise.

“Every new development needs a connection to the electricity distribution network whether it is using or generating energy, or doing both. We source the best deals to provide those connections and design bespoke power systems to suit each customer’s needs.”

Enterprising Barnsley has supported UCE with online marketing, HR advice, leadership and management training.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .